Thread: How much $$$$$

Tweet

Need to get my 37 painted and this question has probably been around a few times, but was wondering what a new paint job will cost(good one) with the same color and if I wanted to change colors would that add to the cost? $2500-$5000,$5000-$10,000 or more. This would just be for the outside.

I can tell you a few things.

Materials (good ones that will last) will cost $1000-$2500, depending on color and other things, so remember that this much of the job does not go into the painter's pocket. Whatever is left over after materials cost, represents the hours he can spend on it. Do you want a two day job...two week job...or a two month job?

Dark colors will cost up to double the amount, due to the additional work involved, unless you are one of those people who can't tell the difference between Earl Schieb and "show quality" work. (Believe me, some people cannot see the difference.)

If you spend less than $5000 for the job, you are going to be very lucky to get a "street and show" quality job. It's more likely going to be a street car job, only.

Originally Posted by DennyW

I agree it should be looked over, But, Have you guys looked at Bart's truck ? If it's still close to this, and no hair line cracks, and he wants the same color, I don't see much of an expense, except the material cost.

If you are doing it yourself, that's true, but if you hire someone, will it be a wino or a pro painter? "Not much expense" is a relative term.

Maybe so many years in the business has made me paranoid, but I know for a fact that photos don't always tell the whole story.

Other questions include: "How many paint jobs are already on it?", Is the paint or bodywork failing anywhere?", "What kind of finish does he expect?", and "Do I need to pull the bed to paint it and the cab ?", "Are you painting it inside and out?", and a big question..."Old trucks are the worst! Was the bodywork right before it was painted last time?"

Denny, I agree it looks pretty darn good. I can at least say it's a clean, and relatively straight truck, (at least on this side). :-) If all he needs is minor repair, and a "scuff and shoot", that would be the least expensive.

My only goal is to try to shed some light on the expense of paint, in broad terms. I'ts really tough to give an absolute cost, when there are sooooo many questions.

Just this morning I was asked by a business what I charge to paint a motorcycle. My answer was "$1,000 to $6,000, depending." Some things, like prime, block, spray, sand, and buff are predictable, but everything else can run to extremes.

After 35 years, I don't want people to think I'm quoting ANYTHING! I've "eaten it" too many times. Good communication, and an honest business ethic, seems to be the key that keeps them coming back for more work.

Sorry guys , but I just got back fron the gym. The truck is straight, last painted 9 years ago. Has scratches on hood, small rock chips(its a driver) running boards scratched, a couples of stars on fiberglass rear fenders.two small rust bubbles, one on rear pan, other on rockerpanel. Color it was painted before and it was stripped down to bare metal was PPG1996Chrysler Dark Rosewood Pearl with clear coat. I'm just looking for a body off only. I will paint the frame etc. and the enterior is in perfect shape.

Chevy 37---I'm going to stick my neck away out here, and say about $3000.00 so long as you don't change colours. If you are looking for a good "driving quality " paint job.Let us know what it really costs you please.